Spectral Lines Quiz

What is the term used to describe the width of a spectral line at half of its maximum intensity?

Which equation relates the total area under the curve, Einstein coefficients, and the population of states causing absorption around $\nu_0$?

When does homogeneous line broadening occur?

What is the term used to describe the broadening that occurs if the atomic resonance frequency $\nu_0$ is different for each two-level atomic system?

What is the term used to describe the total width of a spectral line?

Spectral Line Characteristics

The width of a spectral line at half of its maximum intensity is known as the full width at half maximum (FWHM).
Homogeneous line broadening arises when all atoms or molecules in a sample experience the same broadening mechanism, such as collisions or natural lifetime effects.
Inhomogeneous broadening occurs when the atomic resonance frequency ( \nu_0 ) varies between different two-level atomic systems due to differences in local environments or energy levels.
The total width of a spectral line refers to the overall extent of the line on the frequency scale, incorporating both homogeneous and inhomogeneous effects.

The equation that links the total area under the curve of a spectral line, the Einstein coefficients, and the population of states causing absorption around the frequency ( \nu_0 ) is typically derived from quantum mechanics principles and statistical mechanics.
Einstein coefficients relate to the probabilities of absorption and emission of photons by atoms, influencing the strength and shape of spectral lines.

Test your knowledge of the shape and width of spectral lines with this quiz. Explore the concepts of emission lines, full width at half maximum (FWHM), and the theoretical versus real-world width of spectral lines.